From the very beginning, humanity has been on the move. Migration, driven by a myriad of factors from conflict and persecution to the simple hope for a better future, is a fundamental part of the human experience. As United Methodists, we believe our faith calls us to respond to this reality with compassion, justice, and a deep recognition of the inherent worth and dignity of all people, regardless of where they were born.
Our Social Principles clearly state: "We recognize, embrace, and affirm all persons, regardless of country of origin, as members of the family of God" (¶162.H). This foundational belief shapes our understanding of immigration and guides our actions. We acknowledge that immigrants to the United States often flee dire circumstances, including war, economic hardship, and persecution. We recognize their courage and resilience in seeking a new life.
The United Methodist Church's stance on immigration isn't a recent development; it's rooted in our longstanding commitment to loving our neighbors and advocating for justice. Our Book of Resolutions outlines specific actions we are called to take, reflecting our deep commitment to this issue. These resolutions aren't fleeting reactions to headlines; they represent the considered and prayerfully discerned position of our denomination.
Our call to welcome the sojourner is deeply rooted in scripture. From Leviticus's instruction to treat the stranger as one of our own citizens (19:33-34) to Hebrews' reminder that in showing hospitality we may be entertaining angels unaware (13:2), the Bible consistently emphasizes our responsibility to care for those who are on the margins. Jesus himself was a refugee, fleeing to Egypt as an infant (Matthew 2:13-18), reminding us that welcoming the stranger is akin to welcoming Christ himself (Matthew 25:35).
Our denomination's resolutions call upon us to:
Advocate for Just Laws: We are called to support legislation that upholds the human rights of all migrants, offering a pathway to legal status for both current and future undocumented immigrants.
Offer Practical Support: This includes establishing English as a Second Language (ESL) programs and advocating for increased funding for such initiatives.
Combat Xenophobia: We must actively denounce and oppose prejudice, racism, and violence directed against migrants, working to build bridges of understanding and respect.
Welcome Newcomers: Our churches are encouraged to welcome newly arriving immigrants into our congregations and communities.
Oppose Inhumane Policies: We stand against policies that separate families, including the construction of walls that divide communities.
Demand Due Process: We call for an end to arrests, detentions, and deportations of undocumented immigrants, particularly children, based solely on their immigration status, until comprehensive and just immigration reform is enacted.
Provide Pastoral Care: We are called to offer compassionate support to refugees and migrants, addressing their spiritual, material, and legal needs.
Collaborate for Justice: We work alongside civic and legal organizations to support migrant communities impacted by harsh immigration laws.
Offer Sanctuary: We support churches that prayerfully choose to offer sanctuary to undocumented immigrants facing deportation.
These are not just words on paper; they are a call to action. As United Methodists, we are called to put our faith into action, working for a world where all people are treated with dignity and respect, and where the promise of a better future is not just a dream, but a possibility for all.
To read more on our Social Principles in the United Methodist Book of Resolutions, please visit: https://www.umcjustice.org/what-we-care-about/civil-and-human-rights/immigration-to-the-united-states
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